Implants

Implant Pre-Surgical Protocol

An Informed Consent letter will be given to you prior to the surgery. Please read this letter at your leisure and return signed prior to the surgery. Do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.

Prescriptions for an antibiotic and a pain medication will be given to you prior to your surgery. Please begin taking the antibiotic the morning of your surgery as prescribed.

During the implant surgery, additional and alternative procedures may be necessary, such as the use of Guided Tissue Augmentation Material and/or bone grafts. Reading material has been provided to you for your information.

Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure. Smokers are asked to refrain from smoking one week prior to surgery and eight weeks following. While this may enhance the result, it does not guarantee success.

At the time of surgery, we reserve the right to abort the placement of implant fixtures should the area not be deemed suitable.

Post-operative monitoring of the surgical site(s) is essential. Patient cooperation is anticipated in the scheduling and keeping of these appointments.

Payment, in full, is expected at the time services are rendered.

There is an additional fee for the Stage II surgery (uncovering of the implants following healing) if treatment is rendered as a two-stage procedure.

Do not take aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, or Advil one week prior to the surgery.

Please call the office if you have any questions.

Implant Post-Surgical Instructions

Do not rinse your mouth, spit out, brush your teeth, or drink liquids with a straw today. 

Beginning the day after your surgery, clean the rest of your teeth with the post-operation toothbrush provided, but do not attempt to brush hard near the treated area. We recommend rinsing with warm salt water 2-3 times per day for one week to soothe the tissue and reduce inflammation. 

It is normal for some swelling to occur during the first few days. Apply an ice pack to the outside of the face, ten minutes on, ten minutes off, as often as possible for the first 36 hours. Subsequently, heat may be applied to the area to address soreness (microwave the gel pack given for 20-30 seconds). Bruising or discoloration may occur, externally, a few days after the procedure. This is normal as long as it is not accompanied by increased pain or fever. Arnica gel can be applied to the affected area to reduce the appearance of bruising if needed.

Ordinarily, slight oozing may be noticed around the surgical site, do not be alarmed. If bleeding seems severe, moisten a gauze pad provided or a tea bag with warm water. Place over the area for 5-10 minutes and apply firm pressure. Do not try to stop the bleeding by rinsing, and avoid exercise for several days after the surgery to avoid bleeding problems. If the bleeding persists, call the office.

If you had a sinus augmentation procedure, you must avoid blowing your nose and air travel for three weeks. A nose bleed may occur within the first few days after surgery. If so, apply pressure to the area with a tissue or dab gently to clean. Afrin nasal spray can be used in the event of congestion.

If you were given a prescription for a pain medication or an antibiotic, take it as directed with food to avoid nausea. We also recommend taking a probiotic during this time.  All antibiotics should be taken for the full course. Severe swelling, difficulty in breathing, or appearance of a rash indicates an allergic response to the medication. Discontinue use at once and immediately seek medical attention.

Until you return for post-operative care, eat softer than normal foods. Do all chewing on the untreated side of your mouth, and avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, spicy, or very hot.

Please refrain from smoking during post-operative period. Avoid alcoholic beverages during this time, especially if you take medication.

If you have removable dental appliances which rest on the surgical site, they will to be adjusted to eliminate pressure on the surgical areas. Discontinue wearing the appliance and schedule for an adjustment immediately if sores develop.

Please call the office if you have any questions.